Joanna James
Bintan Island is a tropical paradise in the Riau Archipelago of Indonesia and is IDEAL for a total vacation for your body, mind and soul. It offers a truly amazing combination of activities inclusive of thrilling adventures, leisure pursuits and cultural discoveries as given below.
Trikora Beach is famous for its beauty, natural scenery and serene environment. Situated on the eastern part of the island, it is perfect to catch some rays on the beach or take a dip in the sea. Families will find this a great spot for picnics, while they can also rent one of the thatched huts along the shore to rest or enjoy snacks. You can additionally take in the beautiful view while sipping fresh coconut water!
For lovers of nature, exploring the trail of Mount Bintan can be very fulfilling. Trekking to the peak takes approximately between 3 to 4 hours and you are rewarded with a splendid view of the island’s vegetation. While hiking, you are likely to encounter different forms of wildlife, which makes this experience not only a physical activity but a way to connect with nature as well!
The Banyan Tree Temple in Senggarang Village is a mesmerising sight where ancient banyan trees have wrapped their roots around the building, almost as if they are protecting it. Villagers say this once-grand, two-storey structure would have crumbled long ago if not for the trees’ natural support. Today, it stands as a captivating, powerful landmark that is ideal to photograph.
Take time to enjoy some snorkelling by visiting White Sands Island. It is just a short boat ride away from Bintan Island and is an ideal spot to snorkel as you have a chance to spot various marine life. Of course, if you are looking for more in-depth underwater escapades, you can also head off on diving excursions to uncover the wonders of the deep!
A mangrove tour offers you the best opportunity to discover a different aspect of Bintan’s natural wonders while cruising along the Kawal River. As you make your way past thriving mangroves set amidst the jungles, you also have a chance to spot diverse wildlife from kingfishers to monkeys and more. Of course, night tours give you a magical experience, since you can see fireflies glowing in the mangroves! Hotels and Resorts such as The Residence Bintan will offer you such tours and include round-trip transfers as well.
Look to stay at a Bintan 5-star resort which offers an immersive cooking class where you can experience a “Farm to Table” culinary adventure. You’ll pick fresh organic ingredients straight from an onsite herb garden, then join the chef in a tranquil outdoor kitchen to whip up authentic Indonesian dishes. It’s a chance to learn home-cooked Javanese recipes and savour cooking close to nature!
Bintan Island is also home to some beautiful sand dunes found at Gurun Pasir Bintan. This site has a history of once being a bauxite mine, but that has all changed and today, the transformed area looks like a desert one may find in the Middle East! The sandy area of the dunes is in stark contrast to the clear blue pond, making it super Instagram-worthy too.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
